Solemnity of Our Lord Jesus Christ, King of the Universe
At the end of the liturgical year, the church celebrates the Kingship of Jesus. At the end of time we will know Jesus as a healing shepherd, a judge who brings justice, and a brother who draws us close. Today’s solemn feast reminds us that God’s love is at the heart of human history and at the heart of the universe itself.
Centering prayers
The Gospel
(Matthew 25:31-46)
For I was hungry and you gave me food, I was thirsty and you gave me drink.
O Jesus, King of Creation,
you came from glory,
to the rough roads of Galilee;
you took a crown of sharp thorns,
and received a killing cross for your throne.
You put on poverty, to be like us,
so that we might be holy like you are holy.
So let us care for your creation that is ill,
welcome the stranger, visit him in prison,
feed her and clothe her, and slake your deepest thirst.
The First Reading
(Ezekiel 34:11-12, 15-17)
I myself will pasture my sheep; I myself will give them rest, says the Lord
The sky is dark. We are frightened, scattered.
Come rescue us, shepherd king.
Find us lost and bring us home.
We are wounded from virus and discord.
And our planet, so wounded.
Bind all our wounds.
And, Lord, let us act the way you act;
let us bind the wounds of others.
The Second Reading
(1 Corinthians 15:20-26, 28)
For he must reign until he has put all his enemies under his feet.
The last enemy to be destroyed is death.
Christ, you have conquered
the last enemy, death!
In you all things shall live
in the resurrection!
Thanks be to God
Copyright © 2023, Anne M. Osdieck
Music for reflection